A lioness and four cubs resting along the branches of a tree in Tanzania

8 days · Tarangire · Lake Manyara · Serengeti · Ngorongoro

The classic circuit, with time to linger

The classic seven with an extra Serengeti night, reaching further into the park than a shorter trip can justify.

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Type: Private safari
Starts: Arusha
Ends: Arusha
Best for: Tarangire · Lake Manyara · Serengeti
Indicative from: Price on request

The route

ArushaTarangireLake ManyaraSerengetiNgorongoroArusha

Why this one

The eighth day buys distance. It is the difference between the central Serengeti, which everyone sees, and the north or west, which most people never reach.

Day by day

What happens, in order

Day 1

Arusha to Tarangire

Afternoon game drive.

Day 2

Tarangire to Lake Manyara

Morning drive, then the forest and the escarpment.

Day 3

Manyara to Serengeti

West across the highlands onto the plains.

Day 4

Central Serengeti

A full day where the resident game is densest.

Day 5

Deeper into the Serengeti

Move north or west, away from the central circuit.

Day 6

A full day in the far Serengeti

The day the extra night is for: long drives, and very few other vehicles.

Day 7

Serengeti to Ngorongoro

Back east, up to the crater rim.

Day 8

Crater floor to Arusha

Dawn descent, then home.

Included

Private pop-top 4x4 with a guaranteed window seat each
Professional guide throughout
All park, crater and conservation fees
Accommodation and meals as listed
Drinking water in the vehicle every day
Airport transfers

Not included

International flights
Tanzania visa
Travel and medical insurance
Tips for your guide and crew
Drinks, laundry and anything personal
Optional activities such as a balloon flight

Questions

Asked before every departure

Is the northern Serengeti worth the drive?

Between June and October, when the herds are on the Mara river, yes. Outside those months the central and southern Serengeti hold more resident game and we route you there instead.

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